Health Conditions

Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) is a life-threatening condition that results from complete blockage of blood flow in one or more of the coronary arteries, thereby preventing blood flow to the heart muscle. As a result, the heart muscle can be injured or permanently damaged. The classic symptoms of a heart attack are:

• Deep, crushing and severe squeezing chest pain usually lasting more than 20 minutes
• Profuse sweating
• Upset stomach
• Shortness of breath
• A sense of impending doom
• Pain in the shoulders, neck or arms

Heart attacks can bring on congestive heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and death.

A blockage in the coronary arteries can be started by a blood clot, ulcers in the wall of the artery, plaque break-up within the artery, or hemorrhage within a plaque. The mechanism of coronary artery blockage is a heavily researched area. Currently, for example, researchers are studying the role of inflammation in coronary artery damage. They have found that the presence of an infection can attract inflammatory chemicals into the artery. This, in turn, encourages the formation of blood clots and blockages. There are also instances where coronary arteries can go into spasms that lead to narrowing of the artery and reduction of blood flow.

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.